what are the key signs of respiratory distress
Logo

Nursing Elites

ATI LPN

ATI Comprehensive Predictor PN

1. What are the key signs of respiratory distress?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Increased respiratory rate and use of accessory muscles are key signs of respiratory distress. When a person is experiencing respiratory distress, their respiratory rate typically increases as the body tries to compensate for the inadequate oxygenation. Additionally, the use of accessory muscles indicates that the person is working harder to breathe. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately represent the key signs of respiratory distress. A decreased respiratory rate, cyanosis, altered mental status, and bradycardia are not typical signs of respiratory distress.

2. What is the first step in assessing a patient with suspected stroke?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to call for emergency assistance (Option D) when assessing a patient with suspected stroke. Time is crucial in stroke management, and activating emergency services promptly can ensure timely access to specialized care such as stroke units and treatments like thrombolytic therapy. Checking for facial droop (Option A), assessing speech clarity (Option B), and performing a neurological assessment (Option C) are important steps in evaluating a stroke but should follow the immediate action of calling for emergency assistance. These initial assessments can help confirm the suspicion of a stroke and provide valuable information to healthcare providers when they arrive. However, the priority is to ensure the patient receives appropriate care without delay by activating emergency services.

3. A nurse in a long-term care facility is auscultating the lung sounds of a client who reports shortness of breath and increased fatigue. The nurse should report which of the following to the provider after hearing this sound?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Fine crackles. Fine crackles suggest fluid in the lungs, which could indicate a serious respiratory issue like pulmonary edema. This sound should be reported to the provider for further evaluation and possible intervention. Rhonchi (choice B) are low-pitched wheezing sounds often caused by secretions in the larger airways, wheezing (choice C) is a high-pitched whistling sound usually caused by narrowed airways, and stridor (choice D) is a high-pitched sound heard on inspiration that indicates upper airway obstruction. While these sounds also require attention, fine crackles are more indicative of fluid accumulation in the lungs, making them the priority for reporting in this scenario.

4. A nurse is preparing a change-of-shift report for an adult female client who is postoperative. Which of the following client information should the nurse include in the report?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: "Platelets 100,000/mm3." A platelet count of 100,000/mm3 is low and increases the client's risk for bleeding, which is crucial information to communicate during the change-of-shift report. Choices A, B, and C provide values within normal ranges and are not directly related to the client's postoperative status or risk for complications. Therefore, they are not the priority information to include in the report.

5. A client diagnosed with hypertension requires lifestyle changes. What change should the nurse emphasize?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Reducing sodium intake is crucial for managing hypertension as excess sodium can lead to increased blood pressure. High-fat foods (Choice A) are not recommended as they can contribute to heart issues. While dairy products (Choice C) should be consumed in moderation, they are not specifically targeted in hypertension management. High-protein foods (Choice D) are not the priority; rather, reducing sodium intake takes precedence due to its direct impact on blood pressure levels.

Similar Questions

A nurse is assessing a client who has a brainstem injury. The nurse should expect the client to exhibit which of the following findings?
A client has developed phlebitis at the IV site. What is the next step the nurse should take?
What are the nursing interventions for a patient with a pressure ulcer?
What is the best approach to assist a client in performing self-care after an acute myocardial infarction, when the client expresses concern about fatigue?
A client has undergone a bronchoscopy, and a nurse is providing care post-procedure. What should the nurse do first?

Access More Features

ATI LPN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • All ATI courses Coverage
  • 30 days access

ATI LPN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • All ATI courses Coverage
  • 30 days access

Other Courses